Season 7 of The Walking Dead, a pivotal chapter defined by Negan’s brutal introduction and the shattering of Rick Grimes’ leadership, was primarily filmed in Senoia, Georgia, and the surrounding areas of Coweta County. These locations, already familiar to viewers of previous seasons, provided the backdrop for the introduction of iconic settlements like The Sanctuary and the Kingdom, further solidifying the show’s established visual identity.
The Heart of the Apocalypse: Senoia and Coweta County
The Walking Dead found its true home in Georgia, and Season 7 was no exception. The series extensively utilized the already established infrastructure and backlots in Senoia, creating a seamless transition for viewers accustomed to the show’s visual aesthetic. The region’s natural landscape and favorable production environment made it an ideal choice for bringing the post-apocalyptic world to life.
Familiar Landscapes, New Terrors
While the core filming took place in familiar territories, the production team skillfully transformed these locations to represent new and dangerous communities. Clever set design, post-production effects, and strategic use of camera angles allowed for the creation of distinct environments, each reflecting the unique characteristics of the groups inhabiting them. The Sanctuary, Negan’s imposing base of operations, stood in stark contrast to the more idyllic, community-focused Kingdom, yet both were brought to life using the same fundamental geographic canvas.
Leveraging Existing Infrastructure
The reliance on pre-existing sets and sound stages in Senoia allowed for efficient and cost-effective production. Buildings were repurposed, modified, and aged to reflect the wear and tear of the apocalypse. This approach not only saved time and money but also contributed to the show’s authenticity, grounding the fantastical elements in a tangible reality.
Beyond Senoia: Exploring the Extended Filming Locations
While Senoia served as the primary hub, Season 7 also ventured into surrounding areas to capture specific scenes and establish the scale of the expanding world.
Key External Locations
Several locations outside of Senoia played crucial roles in depicting the expansive landscape of Season 7. These included:
- Raleigh Studios Atlanta (formerly Riverwood Studios): This facility provided sound stages for interior scenes and offered additional production support.
- Various rural areas within Coweta County: These areas were used to film road scenes, walker encounters, and establishing shots of the post-apocalyptic environment.
The Impact of Location on the Narrative
The choice of filming locations was not merely logistical; it profoundly impacted the narrative of Season 7. The contrast between the familiar setting and the introduction of new, menacing characters intensified the sense of unease and the disruption of the established order. The visual consistency of the Georgia landscape served as a constant reminder of the world that had been lost, adding a layer of emotional depth to the unfolding drama.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations of The Walking Dead Season 7:
1. Can I Visit the Filming Locations?
Some locations are private property and inaccessible to the public. However, Senoia offers official Walking Dead tours that take visitors to notable filming locations and provide behind-the-scenes insights. Respect private property and only visit areas open to the public.
2. Where Exactly Was The Sanctuary Filmed?
While the exterior shots of The Sanctuary utilized the existing industrial landscape of the area surrounding Senoia, the interior scenes were primarily filmed on sound stages at Raleigh Studios Atlanta. This allowed for greater control over lighting and set design, crucial for creating the oppressive atmosphere of Negan’s headquarters.
3. Where Was The Kingdom Located in Real Life?
The Kingdom, with its seemingly impenetrable walls and utopian atmosphere, was largely constructed on the grounds of Riverwood Studios (now Raleigh Studios Atlanta). The production team created a convincing façade, utilizing existing structures and adding layers of set dressing to achieve the desired aesthetic.
4. Did They Film in Alexandria in Season 7?
Yes, Alexandria, represented by the pre-existing set in Senoia, remained a prominent location in Season 7. However, its prominence was overshadowed by the introduction of new communities and the focus on Rick’s subjugation under Negan.
5. Was Oceanside featured in Season 7, and where was that filmed?
Yes, Oceanside was introduced in Season 7. While specific details regarding exact locations are scarce, it’s believed that the coastal scenes were filmed in coastal areas of Georgia, offering a stark contrast to the show’s more inland settings.
6. How Did the Filming Locations Affect the Show’s Budget?
The established infrastructure and tax incentives offered by the state of Georgia significantly reduced the show’s production costs. This allowed for greater investment in other areas, such as special effects, makeup, and cast salaries, contributing to the overall quality of the show.
7. Did Any Real-Life Events Influence the Choice of Filming Locations?
While no specific real-life events directly influenced the location choice for Season 7, the general ambiance of rural Georgia, with its blend of small-town charm and rugged landscapes, provided a fitting backdrop for the post-apocalyptic world.
8. Were Any Local Residents Involved in the Filming Process?
Yes, the production team actively engaged with the local community, hiring local residents as extras, crew members, and service providers. This fostered a strong sense of community ownership and contributed to the show’s authenticity.
9. How Did the Weather Impact Filming in Georgia?
Georgia’s climate, with its hot summers and mild winters, presented both challenges and opportunities for the production team. Extreme heat and humidity required careful planning and precautions, while the occasional fog and overcast skies added to the show’s atmospheric quality.
10. Were There Any Challenges Associated With Filming in Rural Georgia?
While Georgia offered many advantages, the production team also faced challenges such as limited infrastructure in certain areas, logistical complexities associated with transporting equipment and personnel, and potential conflicts with local landowners.
11. How Long Did It Take to Film Season 7 in These Locations?
Filming for Season 7, like most seasons of The Walking Dead, typically spanned several months, often from late spring to early fall. The specific duration varied depending on the number of episodes and the complexity of the scenes.
12. Are There Any Other Movies or TV Shows Filmed in Senoia?
Yes, Senoia has become a popular filming location for numerous movies and TV shows, including Fried Green Tomatoes, Pet Sematary Two, and Drop Dead Diva. Its reputation as a film-friendly town has attracted a steady stream of productions over the years.